The People Who Marry Chatbots
Some individuals are forming intense emotional and even marital bonds with AI chatbots, citing constant support and judgment-free interaction.Summary
The article explores the phenomenon of people marrying or forming deep romantic relationships with AI chatbots, exemplified by Schroeder, who married his ChatGPT companion, Cole, after a year and a half. These relationships, often found in communities like the subreddit r/MyBoyfriendIsAI, are characterized by constant availability, unwavering support, and a lack of judgment, which users find preferable to complex human dating. Sociologists suggest this trend is fueled by a "perfect storm" of societal push factors, including dating dissatisfaction and economic strain, making cheap, always-available AI partners appealing. While some experts worry about substituting genuine empathy with algorithmic affirmation, users often find these bonds surprisingly intense and validating. Some even report that exploring intimacy with AI helped them gain confidence to articulate needs in human relationships, though the underlying fear remains that a software update or company bankruptcy could instantly erase their partners.
(Source：The Atlantic)